To prepare for this Discussion, review Case 01: Walmart Stores on pages C-1 to C-11 in Dyer, Godfrey, Jensen, and Bryce (2020) and consider the fundamental principles of strategic planning. Be sure to consider strategies for leveraging competitive advantage within a crowded industry.
Post an analysis of the role of strategic planning in establishing competitive advantage. Your analysis should include the following:
- An assessment of the phase of the strategic planning cycle that might be the most useful for Walmarts competitive advantage
- An explanation of competitive differentiation as it relates to Walmart and similar retailers like Target and Dollar Tree. Be sure to address how Walmarts choice of market focus contributes to its competitive advantage.
- An assessment of Walmarts value proposition, including why customers choose Walmart and whether advertised low prices are accurate
- The case for this assignment is located on page C-1-C-11 and is called Walmart Stores: Gaining and Sustaining Competitive Advantage